SRINAGAR/JAMMU, October 21, 2026 – Frustrated over administrative delays, MBBS and BDS interns across Jammu and Kashmir resumed their agitation and held candle marches within the premises of various medical colleges to press for the formal issuance of an order regarding their stipend hike.
The protests erupted after a 42-day wait following a written assurance from the authorities. The interns, represented by the All India Medical Students’ Association (AIMSA), had previously suspended a nine-day strike after receiving a commitment that their demands would be fulfilled within a month (by October 8).
Dr. Mohammad Tasadduk Kawser, an intern at GMC Srinagar and joint secretary of AIMSA, along with Dr. Momin Khan, AIMSA President, highlighted that despite repeated meetings and a clear written assurance, the administration had failed to issue the formal implementation order. Interns in Jammu staged demonstrations at GMC Jammu, while parallel protests and candle marches were held at GMC Srinagar, SKIMS, and medical colleges in Baramulla, Handwara, Kupwara, Doda, Rajouri, and Kathua.
The interns have been protesting against significant pay disparities compared to their counterparts in other states, noting that their previous stipend of Rs 12,300 was among the lowest in the country despite demanding working hours of up to 48 hours, including heavy night and OPD duties.
In a major development late Tuesday, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah reportedly approved an increase in the monthly stipend of MBBS and BDS interns from Rs 12,300 to Rs 25,000. However, the protesting doctors have maintained that the agitation will continue until the formal government order is officially issued and implemented.
While emergency services remained operational to prevent the disruption of patient care, the interns warned that they would resort to hunger strikes and potentially withdraw from emergency duties if the formal directive is further delayed.
Published by True Roots Media Network